Buick-badged Opel Cascada could hit North America as early as 2016

We could see the Opel Cascada sold here as a Buick as early as 2016.

PHOTO: Handout, GM

By Nick Tragianis

Originally published: August 22, 2014

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It’s no secret GM wants to import more Opel models into North America in an effort to add a dash of European flavour to its Buick lineup. Among the rumoured models is the Cascada convertible, which could arrive here sooner rather than later.

According to a report from GM Inside News, an Opel Cascada has been shown to dealer executives in a recent meeting. But there’s a twist — the executives at the meeting, who chose to remain anonymous, say the Cascada in question wore Buick badges and was identical to the European-spec open, right down to the wheels.

The Cascada’s powertrain at the meeting wasn’t disclosed, but in Europe, the Cascada is offered with a 1.4-litre or 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, as well as a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel. The report suggests if all goes to plan, we could see the Cascada in North America as early as 2016.

This news comes after multiple rumours and speculation that GM intends to expand Buick with more imported Opel models. Former CEO Dan Akerson even went as far to say he agrees with the idea of GM offering the Cascada in North America, which was followed up by product chief Mark Reuss saying he wants something “special” for Buick’s North American lineup.